So I thought I’d share a glimpse of my “Graduation-Photo-Album-2014.” I refused to book an actual photo session simply because it costs way too much! And a Nikon 32-whatever-the-digits-are camera would be enough to capture such a momentous event. (But then I don’t get to have the traditional graduation photo at all. But who cares? I got amazing shots on our Nikon 32-so-on-so-forth camera anyway). By the way, they are all in black in white, just because. So, there you go.

The feeling you get when your name is finally called, plus, the relief that comes with it knowing that there’s about 500 of you on the list!

Rie Manaloto

Some of my amazing colleagues present in the graduation. So honoured to have worked with them for three years.

Well, I guess that signifies freedom and success?

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Been dreaming to have this photo!

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Dr Bruce Crossman. Our Bruce. He’s an amazing musician, composer, music critic, and the list goes on. It is such an honour to have attended all his lectures and workshops, and to have some of my works handpicked by him to be used in student showcase.

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Dr Brendan Smyly. This man is an integral part of this course, and my personal learning. I can’t articulate how much impact he has on me and on a lot of us actually. Very intelligent, formidable, and he epitomises the genuinely ‘cool’ teacher. So honoured to have been taught by him in the course.

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Proud and supportive parents. I really dedicate this achievement to my family, especially to my Mother who busted her aff so I can actually study in my first two years of university. Long story.

The classic throwing of the hat. It was not done in the formal program so I thought I’d put it in my ‘creative photography’ repertoire.

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Well, you’ve seen this photo. My attempt to do a high art whatever. One of my favourite shots.

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My awesome sister who was our official photographer for the day. She has been really efficient to the point that she has left some of her stuff unattended out of excitement and selfless duty.

Finally in my black robe. It’s incredible. The material is impeccable. I just imbibed being a graduate so profusely, primarily because of how I felt while wearing it, however uncomfortable and hefty it was. Most importantly, it made me feel like an envoy from Hogwarts. HAHAHA! But really, it did make me feel like a fulfilled man.

I have officially finished my Bachelor of Music degree. Ah, this momentous life shift.

I’m afraid I wasn’t able to pen a parmesan-filled graduation message. But I’d like to express my inexplicable joy and gratitude to everything and every single person that have made this possible.

It has been an amazing journey, really. And I just feel very humbled and moved by all the support and love coming from my family, friends, amazing colleagues, my inspirations, and even my detractors. You have made it all worthwhile.

And to my Maker and Mentor, this one’s for you! I owe you big-time. And I give you back all the glory and all that’s beyond it! SOLI DEO GLORIA!